Activist and independent researcher Syl Ko is speaking at UCSB to address feminism, decolonization, speciesism, and racism in relation to animal ethics. In this talk that is both provocative and astute, Syl Ko discusses the consequences of our consideration to animality with an intersectional lens. The lecture will be followed by a complimentary vegan buffet (courtesy of the VS@UCSB team), featuring vegan cheeses courtesy of Miyoko’s.

Come hear esteemed author, blogger, internationally acclaimed speaker, teacher & heartfelt presenter, Victoria Moran, who will be providing inspiration, insights and guidance to those who would like to learn how to successfully navigate the newly emerging mainstream veganism.

UCSB Vegan Studies is extremely proud to present Michael Klaper, MD, a practicing physician for over 40 years and a respected authority and internationally acclaimed speaker on diet and health. Dr. Klaper delivers important information on optimum human nutrition with humor and wit. His presentation will be FREE and open to the public. Following his talk, there will be a Q&A and a complimentary vegan buffet (courtesy of the VS@UCSB team), featuring vegan cheeses courtesy of Miyoko’s.

We’re so excited to welcome NFL player David Carter AKA The 300 Pound Vegan as our guest speaker! Our class will be an open session on this day, so anyone is welcome to join us as we listen to David speak about his journey with veganism and activism for the environment and animal rights.

A presentation by Miyoko Schinner, CEO of Miyoko’s Kitchen

Miyoko Schinner will talk about recent developments in plant based foods, how they are driving the market and investments, including statistics, challenges with regulatory issues, and the overall bright picture of a vegan future based on the changing economy.

A presentation by Jonathan Dickstein (PhD student - UCSB)

This talk provides an overview of the South Asian religious landscape and the location and status of nonhuman animals therein. It addresses the largely pan-Indic ethic of ahiṃsā (non-harming), how it is understood by these traditions, and to whom it extends and to what degree. Is the ethic of non-harming reconcilable with animal manipulation, slaughter, or consumption?

A presentation by Professor David Cleveland (UCSB)

Professor Cleveland is currently researching the potential for agrifood system localization and diet change, to improve nutrition, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote food and climate justice, in California, the US, and globally. His latest book is Balancing on a Planet: The Future of Food and Agriculture (2014, University of California Press).

Neal Barnard, M.D., president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, and founder of Barnard Medical Center will give a special lecture, followed by a Q-and-A period along with special guest presenter, Kathy Freston, author of Veganist.

What better way to celebrate the upcoming school year-end than with a vegan BBQ/potluck by the beach! A fun-in-the-sun community get together! We’ll be grilling up veggie burgers, providing other delicious vegan foods, and enjoying great company.

Gene Baur has been hailed as the "conscience of the food movement" by Time Magazine. As the president and co-founder of Farm Sanctuary, the nation’s largest and most effective farm animal rescue and protection organization, Gene has worked tirelessly to combat the abuses of factory farming and promote compassionate vegan living.

Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz's talk "On Humans & Animals: To Whom Are We Responsible?" will explore the intersections of Veganism and Judaism, comparing and contrasting various Jewish thinkers and their responses to notions of ethical obligations and universal rights.

Do you believe that bacon makes everything better? Perhaps you’re a strict vegetarian, or even the more rare and spectacular vegan? Regardless of label, are you truly aware of what guides your choices?